In Honduras, application of SHARP tools and approaches is gathering pace. SHARP’s regional focal point, Proforest is working with palm oil company Jaremar and smallholder association UNPALA using the RSS framework as a step-wise approach to smallholder certification. A key aspect of this work is scaling up the application of the simplified precautionary practices approach for smallholder management of HCVs, which has included recent field testing of a prototype app to help group managers understand and assess risks to HCVs.

SHARP partners Proforest, Daemeter and the HCV Resource Network are working with the World Resources Institute and Blue Rastar to develop a smart phone app that will help to reduce deforestation in smallholder supply bases. The app will facilitate the collection of information from smallholder farmers, like location of their farms, vegetation, presence of species, type of fertiliser used, etc.

Through 2015 Regional Focal Points (RFPs) have been leading the field implementation of the SHARP Responsible Sourcing from Smallholders (RSS) framework and simplified High Conservation Value (HCV) approach for smallholders. In Januarythey met for two days in The Hague to capture and consolidate lessons from this formative experience. They were hosted by SNV and joined by staff from the Proforest Responsible Sourcing team, the HCV Resource Network and IDH. Here are their key conclusions: